All Forum Posts by: Julie Groth

I think that the main thing is to go for the Instagram photo...like WOW, really nice! Lots of wall decor and items on mantels/dressers/table. Gives it more wow factors and photos can look plain. The photos will sell it. After photos, I go in and remove some of the small items on the dressers, etc so that it's easier to unpack and set your stuff out and actually use the place. Upscale lighting fixtures are a key element to making the place pop.

Also, I like to think functionally...robe hooks on the back of every door for wet towels with lots of people. Large dining room tables (in my photo, there are 2 more chairs) for big groups to sit/dine. Drives me crazy when someone advertises a fair amount of guests but only seats 4-6 at dining. 

Phone charger plug-ins on every night stand. Black wash cloths for makeup removal (I always feel uncomfortable if I'm going to get make up on white towel).

I realize that food is not expected but sometimes I'm starving when I get some place and LOVE it when there is, at least, a snack of some kind.  @Ken Latchers Why does it sometimes get you a negative review?

I think it would be nice (and therefore quietly solicit 5 star reviews) if people have some kind of food in the house when they arrive? 

What do you all do?

What about other items like honey, mayo/mustard/ketchup...do you buy those individually wrapped and have available?

Other suggestions?

@Jill F.Thanks! Traditional innersprings don't hold up well at all. I have to replace my own very often. Thanks for the input on the ILD latex...had not heard of that before.

@John Underwood So you just ask for a copy of their driver's license?

@Luke Carl. You meant to say 'vet' correct? Are there any things that raise red flags for you, like one night stays or locals where they might be throwing a part? Or, someone under age? I'm concerned about those 2 things mostly.

Yikes! I've got my Airbnb listing up and have some bookings and inquires. Kinda jumped the gun because I don't know what I'm suppose to ask them (to vet them in some way). And, don't know what I should tell them besides the lockbox code # and check-in time.

Any help here is much appreciated!

Unless you KNOW your guest profile and it is consistent (like families near Disney or something) then you have no idea, really, how people want to sleep. Are they couples, do some snore (my issue when I rent with my college friends), all friends with everyone wanting their own bed, etc.             

I've done a fairly in-depth analysis of what rises to the top when people are looking on Airbnb. Typical properties like a 3/2 have tons of competition. More bedrooms, less competition. More beds, less competition. The best is 5+ bedrooms, 14+ guests, 4+bathrms, 14+beds. Very little competition. 

1800 sf should be way big enough to host 12+ people. I have 1600 sf and had large groups (although it was specifically built with a great layout for that).

 I ordered an egg crate foam topper from FoamOrder.com. I'm hoping that the egg crate, with a thick mattress cover or even a comforter underneath a mattress cover will do the trick. When I stay in a vacation rental, if everything else in a house was great and they gave good service, I would not necessarily take the time to write a 5 star review. IF the beds were super comfy (plus the other stuff), then I'd go out of my way to write a glowing review. Maybe it is just me, but some people love great beds.

Thanks @Lauren Kormylo.